“I won’t.” I promised.
There was a brief pause before he spoke again. “Look at the dresser,” he instructed. “Do you see it?”
His Amex card? Hard to miss.
“I have my own money, you know.” I replied.
“I want you to spend mine.”
“You're spoiling me.” I argued.
“Cupcake, I’m just getting started.”
***
THE SCENT OFcoffee seeped into my senses as I padded downstairs after getting off the phone with Nathan. Sunlight poured through the floor-to-ceiling windows, coating the sleek, modern kitchen in a golden glow.
Ryan stood near the island, broad-shouldered and sharp-jawed, a quiet storm of a man. He had the kind of presence that made people do a double take, the type of attractiveness that didn’t just stem from his chiseled features but from the lethal confidence he exuded. His light brown eyes swept over me once before he returned his attention to the phone in his hand.
“Morning,” I greeted, pulling a mug from the cabinet.
Ryan inclined his head in acknowledgment. “Morning.”
“Coffee?” I held up the pot in a silent offering.
A rare flicker of amusement ghosted over his face. “Sure. Thanks.”
I poured him a cup, sliding it across the counter. “Thanks for keeping an eye on me today.”
Ryan took the mug, his fingers brushing mine for the briefest second. “Just following orders.” His voice was even, but there was something steady and reassuring beneath it. “You don’t need to be afraid. Your ex won’t touch you again.”
A shiver ran through me, but not from fear. From the weight of certainty in his tone.
Before I could respond, a soft chime sounded through the penthouse. I glanced toward the elevator just as the doorsslid open, revealing Kelsey and Alessia stepping inside, both looking as effortlessly stunning as ever. Kelsey wore an oversized off-the-shoulder sweater with fitted biker shorts and designer sneakers. Her braids were styled into a high ponytail while Alessia chose a soft pink fitted dress that hugged her frame, paired with delicate heels and gold jewelry. Her curls looked extra curly and full this morning.
Taylor appeared behind the both of them, dressed in her signature black skinny jeans and vintage t-shirt and black combat boots.
“Finally!” Alessia pulled me into a hug. “How are you? Are you okay? I know we talked a little bit last night, but I just had to see with my own eyes.”
“I'm okay.” I answered softly. “The police are looking for Jax and Nathan is gonna keep me safe.”
“You know I won't let that asshole hurt you, either right?" Taylor locked gaze with me.
“I know.” I would hug her, but the former army vet hated to be touched.
“And who’s this?” Alessia asked, her eyes locked on Ryan.
“Ryan.” I turned toward him. “He’s Nathan’s bodyguard. He’ll be with us today.”
Alessia’s lips curled into a smirk. “Does that mean we’re getting into trouble?”
Ryan, ever stoic, remained unfazed. “Not on my watch.”
“Let me freshen up then we can go.” I told them as I stepped back so they could enter more.
“Take your time.” Alessia called over her shoulder, never taking her eyes off Ryan.
Taylor, Kelsey and I all laughed before I left them to their own devices and jogged upstairs to get ready.
